Discussion by Norman Phelps

Abstract

At the recent Kansas City meeting of MTNA, where his paper was originally read, time would not allow each panelist to respond to the full content of the paper. We agreed that each would concern himself with particular part of the total statement. I was assigned that portion which is devoted to the understanding of itselfl' I have been requested to concern myself with that same portion here. The term theory has such variety of meanings and applications that it is impossible to proceed without detailed definition. The stem of theory, theorist, theorem, theoretic and similar derivatives is the Greek word for sight!' In Greek antiquity, theo designated an ambassador or envoy sent by state to consult an oracle or to perform religious rite. Theorus (in Greek and in Latin) means spectator!' Theory (L. theoria) = viewing, sight, spectacle. Plato's use of the word theory described a contemplated truth' Aristotle elaborated this to mean pure knowledge as opposed to practical knowledge!' The S.O.E.D. includes five definitions of theory. The first of these is obsolete. The fourth and fifth definitions are non-specific and not applicable here even though number five, which describes as a hypothesis proposed as an explanation; hence mere hypothesis, . . . an individual view or notion' states quite common conception of theory. Definitions 2 and 3 (especially 3b. ) are more clearly applicable to music theory. They are: